Hexagon Bolts

About Hexagon Bolts

Hexagon bolts, also known as hex bolts or hex head bolts, are among the most versatile and widely used fasteners across construction, engineering, and manufacturing sectors. Characterised by their distinctive six-sided head and external threading, these bolts are designed to be driven with spanners or socket sets, providing secure mechanical connections where reliable clamping force is essential. The hexagonal head design offers superior grip and torque application compared to other fastener types, making them the go-to choice for structural steelwork, machinery assembly, automotive repairs, and countless other applications.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks the comprehensive Sirius range of hexagon bolts, covering the most demanded specifications by UK tradespeople and engineers. Available in corrosion-resistant A2 304 and A4 316 stainless steel grades, as well as high tensile 8.8 and 10.9 grades in galvanised, zinc plated, and standard finishes, these bolts are manufactured to exacting standards. Whether you're working on outdoor installations requiring weather resistance, structural projects demanding maximum load-bearing capacity, or marine environments needing superior corrosion protection, you'll find the appropriate specification within this category.

Applications

Hexagon bolts are essential fasteners used across numerous trades and industries:

• Structural Engineers and Steel Erectors - connecting steel beams, columns, and framework in building construction
• Mechanical Engineers and Fitters - assembling machinery, equipment, and mechanical systems
• Automotive Technicians - repairing suspension, engine, and chassis components
• Agricultural Engineers - maintaining and repairing farm machinery and equipment
• Plant and Maintenance Engineers - industrial equipment servicing and facility maintenance
• Fabricators and Welders - creating structural frameworks and custom metalwork
• Marine Engineers - boat building and repair, particularly using A4 stainless steel grades
• DIY Enthusiasts - home projects requiring robust, reliable fastening solutions

Choosing The Right Hexagon Bolts

Material and Finish: Consider the operating environment carefully. Zinc plated bolts offer economical protection for indoor applications, whilst galvanised finishes provide superior long-term corrosion resistance for outdoor use. Marine environments, chemical processing, or food industry applications require A4 316 stainless steel, whilst A2 304 stainless provides excellent all-round protection for most outdoor situations.

Strength Grade: Match the bolt grade to your load requirements. Grade 8.8 bolts suit most general engineering and construction applications, whilst Grade 10.9 high tensile bolts are specified for structural connections, critical safety applications, or where maximum clamping force is required. Always consult relevant engineering specifications and building regulations for structural work.

Size and Thread: Measure the diameter and length required, accounting for material thickness plus adequate thread engagement. Ensure 2-3 threads protrude beyond the nut face for proper connection. Standard metric threads following ISO specifications are most common across UK applications.

Compatibility: Pair Grade 8.8 and 10.9 bolts with nuts of matching or higher grade. Use appropriate washers to distribute load and prevent surface damage during tightening.

Safety Information

Always wear safety gloves to protect against sharp threads and safety glasses when cutting or grinding bolts to length. Use correctly sized tools to avoid rounding bolt heads or causing slippage that could result in injury. Never substitute lower grade bolts for specified higher grades in structural applications, as this compromises safety and integrity.

Follow torque specifications precisely—under-tightening can lead to joint failure whilst over-tightening may cause bolt fracture or thread stripping. For critical safety applications or work at height, follow HSE guidelines and consider having work inspected by a qualified professional. When using stainless steel bolts, apply anti-seize compounds to prevent galling during installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Grade 8.8 and Grade 10.9 bolts?
Grade 10.9 bolts are approximately 25% stronger than Grade 8.8, with higher tensile and yield strength. Grade 8.8 is suitable for most general construction applications, whilst Grade 10.9 is specified for high-stress structural connections and where maximum clamping force is required. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks both grades to suit your specific requirements.

Should I use galvanised or zinc plated finish?
Galvanising provides a thicker, more durable zinc coating offering superior long-term corrosion protection, ideal for outdoor structural applications and exposure to UK weather conditions. Zinc plating is thinner and more economical, suitable for indoor applications or less demanding outdoor use.

How much thread should protrude through the nut?
Best practice requires 2-3 complete threads protruding beyond the nut face after tightening. This ensures full thread engagement whilst providing visual confirmation of proper installation. For structural applications, always consult relevant engineering specifications as requirements may vary.